Tuesday of the Second Week of Advent

December 11, 2018 •
Tracy Earl Welliver

In today’s Gospel, Jesus talks about the joy of the shepherd who leaves his 99 sheep to find the one that had strayed. God rejoices more for the one that is lost and then found than for all of those who have remained faithful. This theme is found several more times in sacred Scripture, most prominently in the Parable of the Two Sons (also known as the Prodigal Son).

At some time in our life, we are the one and not part of the 99. During this season, I guarantee there are people you know or come into contact with who are not in the 99. We become the hands, eyes, ears, and heart of Jesus when we seek to live this stewardship way of life. Perhaps God is working through you to bring that one back to the fold. Maybe the witness of your generosity is what it will take. Maybe holding them in the intentions of your daily prayers will help to move them. An invitation to an Advent event or service at your church or another area church might remind them of who they belong to. What a great gift to give Jesus this Christmas: a soul.

Daily advent challenge:

Try to identify one person you know who needs help finding a way back to God. Make a decision to help God lead him or her home.